Emirates is known for its generous baggage allowance, but what are the exact rules? And how strict is Emirates when it comes to carry-on size and weight?
In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to avoid any last-minute surprises or extra charges at the airport.
What You’ll Learn in This Article:
- How much weight can I carry on an Emirates flight?
- Does Emirates allow a personal item?
- Does Emirates check hand luggage weight?
- What is the carry-on weight limit for Emirates?
- How strict is Emirates on cabin baggage?
- What is the maximum size of checked baggage?
- Does Emirates offer inflight entertainment?
- Plus, useful baggage hacks to maximize your luggage.
Emirates Hand Baggage Allowance
Your cabin baggage allowance depends on your travel class.
Here’s a breakdown:
First Class & Business Class:
Passengers can bring two pieces of carry-on luggage:
- One briefcase: Max size 45 x 35 x 20 cm approximately 17.72 x 13.78 x 7.87 inches.
- One handbag or garment bag: Handbag (55 x 38 x 20 cm) approximately 21.65 x 14.96 x 7.87 inches, Garment bag (max 20 cm, 7.87 inches, thick when folded)
- Total weight: Both pieces combined must not exceed 12 kg
Economy Class:
- Passengers can bring one piece of carry-on baggage: Max size 55 x 38 x 20 cm, approximately 21.65 x 14.96 x 7.87 inches
- It’s best to keep the weight under 7 kg (15.43 lbs) to avoid issues at the gate
How Strict Is Emirates on Cabin Baggage?
Emirates is generally not too strict with carry-on baggage weight, especially if your bag isn’t noticeably over the limit.
At busy airports, they may weigh your bag, so it’s always best to stay within the allowance.
For economy class, you can bring:
- One carry-on bag (7 kg / 15 lb, 55 x 38 x 20 cm)
- Additional items like duty-free purchases, perfumes, and liquor in reasonable quantities, these items don’t count toward your carry-on allowance.
Personal Items
Business & First Class passengers can bring two pieces of hand luggage.
Allowances for personal items include:
- Briefcase: 45 x 35 x 20 cm
- Handbag: 55 x 38 x 20 cm
- Garment bag: 20 cm thick when folded
Emirates Extra Baggage Fees
If you need extra baggage, Emirates offers special discounts when you purchase additional allowance online.
Simply log in to manage booking on the Emirates website and check the excess baggage fees in your ticketed currency.
Sample Extra Baggage Charges (subject to change):
| From/To | Middle East / South Asia | Africa | Far East | Europe | Australia & New Zealand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Middle East / South Asia | $20 | $30 | $30 | $30 | $40 |
| Far East | $30 | $40 | $15 | $40 | $30 |
| Europe | $30 | $40 | $40 | $15 | $50 |
| Australia & New Zealand | $40 | $50 | $30 | $50 | $15 |
Buy your extra baggage online to save up to 15% compared to paying at the airport.
Emirates Checked Baggage Allowance
How much checked baggage you can bring depends on your class of travel:
- Economy Class: Up to 30 kg
- Business Class: Up to 40 kg
- First Class: Up to 50 kg
Size Restrictions:
- Each piece must not exceed 150 cm (59 inches) in total dimensions.
- If your bag is over 300 cm (118 inches) in total dimensions, it must be transported as cargo.
What to Do If Your Baggage Is Delayed
Lost luggage? Don’t panic, Here’s what to do:
- Go to the service desk (near baggage claim at the airport).
- Fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) – this helps Emirates track your bag.
- Most bags are returned within 3 days.
- If your baggage isn’t found within 3 days, submit a Baggage Inventory Form with more details.
Emirates Liquid Restrictions
To comply with security regulations:
- Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100 ml or less.
- All containers must fit into a 1-liter transparent plastic bag.
- One bag per passenger.
- Exemptions: Baby milk, medications, and dietary requirements (but you may need to verify them at security).
Emirates Sporting Equipment Policy
- Golf Equipment: One set of golf clubs + one pair of golf shoes free of charge.
- Other sports equipment: Standard excess baggage fees apply.
- Ski equipment & oversized items: May have additional charges.
- Use Emirates’ baggage calculator to check exact fees.
Baggage Hacks to Maximize Your Luggage
Use a Pillow Trick
Did you know you can carry a pillow without it counting toward your baggage allowance? Try this:
- Use a pillowcase and fill it with soft items (like socks, T-shirts, or underwear).
- It looks like a pillow, but actually holds extra clothes.
Wrap Something Colorful on Your Luggage
Make your suitcase stand out on the baggage carousel. A bright ribbon, sticker, or unique luggage tag helps you spot your bag instantly and avoid mix-ups.
Pre-Book Your Airport Parking
If you’re driving to the airport, always book your parking in advance. You can save up to 60% compared to paying on the day.
Final Thoughts
Emirates offers one of the best baggage allowances in the world, and they aren’t overly strict about weight.
To avoid any hassle at check-in, always double-check your baggage limits, buy extra allowance online if needed, and use smart packing hacks to maximize your luggage space.
For the latest baggage policies, visit Emirates.com. Safe travels.
You can also contact Emiates here :
- Emirates Help Page: https://www.emirates.com/us/english/help/
- Phone: +18007773999
FAQs
Yes, Economy passengers can bring one carry-on bag, while Business and First Class passengers can have two pieces of hand luggage, including a handbag, briefcase, or garment bag.
Emirates is usually not too strict, but they may weigh your bag at busy airports. It’s best to stay within the 7 kg (15 lb) limit for Economy Class.
You can buy extra baggage: Online (cheaper—up to 15% savings), through Emirates customer service, or at the airport (most expensive option).
Costs vary by route, but buying online saves you money. Prices start at: $100-$200 per extra bag (piece-based routes). $15 per kg (weight-based routes).
Yes, and there’s no total limit, but each liquid container must be 5 liters or less and properly sealed.
Yes, but only in checked baggage. If packed in your carry-on, security will likely confiscate it.
Read also :
- How Strict Is Qatar Airways On Baggage?
- How Strict Is Singapore Airlines Baggage Allowance?
- How Strict Is Lufthansa With Carry on Luggage?
